As many as 113 revellers were injured in“Dahi-handi”-related incidents in Mumbai and neighbouring Thane, as mishaps marred the Krishna Janmashtami celebrations in the metropolis and neighbouring Thane districts on Friday.
While 78 persons were injured during “human pyramid” formations done as part of the “dahi-handi celebrations in various parts of Mumbai, 35 persons were injured in similar mishaps in Thane.
Of the 78 injured persons, 67 people were treated and allowed to go, while the remaining injured persons are undergoing treatment at the various hospitals in Mumbai. In Thane, 29 out of 35 injured were allowed to go after treatment, while six are being treated at various hospitals.
The mishaps have over the years become a common feature during the Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, despite the height and age restrictions imposed by the Bombay High Court.
There were no Dahi handi celebrations during the last two years owing to Covid-19..
During the Dahi handi celebrations held in August 2019, two persons were killed and at least 133 others were injured in the Krishna Janmashtami celebration-related in Mumbai and neighbouring districts of Thane and Raigad.
In 2018, a 20-year-old boy was killed and at least 98 others were injured in “Dahi-handi”-related incidents, During 2017, two persons had been killed and at least 120 others injured in “Dahi-handi”-related incidents in the metropolis and neighbouring Thane and Palghar districts. In 2016, as many At least 128 people were injured in “Dahi-handi”-related incidents in Mumbai and neighbouring Thane
It may be recalled that in 2016, the Maharashtra government had declared “Dahi handi” as an “adventurous sport”.
However, following a submission made by the State government in response to public interest litigation before it, a HC division bench had accepted the state government’s submission that it would not permit the children below the age of 14 years to take part in the dahi handi celebrations. Despite the restrictions, it has been noticed that children below 14 years of age have been participating in the Dahi-handi events.